FAQs
What should you bring to your consultation?
Please fill out the intake form that will be provided to you when you schedule a consultation and be prepared to gather all the documents relevant to your case. If you have a criminal record, it is recommended that you also bring copies of all police and court documents.What is USCIS?
USCIS stands for United States Citizenship and Immigration Services and it is part of the Department of Homeland Security. This is the government agency that oversees legal immigration in the United States.What is EOIR?
EOIR stands for Executive Office of Immigration Review and it is part of the Department of Justice. It is commonly known as “Immigration Court.” This is the government agency that oversees all of the immigration hearings both detained and non-detained. They have courts throughout the U.S. and its territories.What is the Visa Bulletin?
Congress caps the number of immigrant visas that can be issued each year in certain categories. Because of this, the Department of States publishes a “Visa Bulletin” every month to show which green card or immigrant visa applications can be filed or adjudicated.What is an A-number?
This is a unique seven, eight, or nine digit number assigned by the Department of Homeland Security to an immigrant.What is an Adjustment of Status?
This is the process that allows you to apply for permanent residency status when you are present in the United States without having to return to your home country.What is a Green Card?
A “green card” is also known as a permanent residency card. It provides immigrants with authorization to live and work anywhere in the United States. They can be conditional or permanent and can be obtained via multiple avenues. They provide immigrants with a path to citizenship.How can I get a Work Permit?
A work permit, also known as an Employment Authorization Document or “EAD,” is a benefit that an immigrant can obtain through a pending or adjudicated underlying petition. There are no stand-alone work permits. Their validity and expiration time varies depending on the underlying petition. You may be able to apply for a work permit if you qualify under a specific immigration category.What is a Request for Evidence?
This is commonly referred to as an “RFE.” USCIS may send you a notice requesting additional evidence if they believe you did not submit all of the required evidence, your evidence is no longer valid, or the officer adjudicating your process needs more information to determine your eligibility.Do I Need a Lawyer?
You do not need a lawyer to apply for immigration benefits; however, having a lawyer to guide you through the process can be beneficial and may help bring you peace of mind in an ever-changing area of law. Additionally, most immigration benefits are discretionary. If you have any issues in your background, a lawyer can help guide you through the immigration process by explaining the risks and consequences of filing for certain relief.Many people offer to help with immigration services. Unfortunately, not all of them are authorized or qualified to do so. If you are seeking legal help to begin an immigration process, please be aware that only attorneys and EOIR-accredited representatives can provide legal advice about which forms and documents to attach to your applications or petitions, explain immigration options you may have, and communicate with USCIS about your case.
